[Hallicrafters] tools for the newbie

[k6uuz at juno.com]

Mark is correct. A varic is very useful. However I found a cheaper way to
do it. I made a voltage reducer (see BAMA) with a light bulb socket in
series with the output to a standard duplex outlet. The voltage reducer
is because most tube-type radios were designed when the standard mains
voltage was 115-117 VAC. I don't like to run these old guys on today's
122 VAC. The light bulb socket is to limit the current until satisfied
all is OK. I start with a 60 watt bulb and monitor the B+. When the B+
stops rising I change to a 100 watt bulb. When it stops rising again I
change to a 150 watt bulb. When it stops rising again I go directly to
the voltage reducer. I have had caps short during this process and all
that happens is the light bulb gets brighter. No damage to the radio.
Thanks.

Ed Richards

On Wed, 15 Jan 2003 23:54:33 -0500 "Mark J. Giubardo" <w1mjg at arrl.net>
writes:
> Hi Tim,
> 
> I think you have the name of the device in your question #1 
> incorrect. What
> I think you meant to say was "Veriac", I believe it is a trademark 
> of
> General Radio Corp, but used generically today. This is a variable
> autoformer used to vary the line voltage to a device under test. In 
> my
> opinion a very useful for firing up old electronics gently. Swap 
> meets or
> Ebay are places to find them at reasonable prices.
> 
> A varacter is diode that is run reverse biased and used as a voltage
> variable capacitor to tune circuits.
> 
> Wish you lots of enjoyment with your Boatanchors,
> 
> Mark  W1MJG
> 
> 
> -----Original Message-----
> From: hallicrafters-admin at mailman.qth.net
> [mailto:hallicrafters-admin at mailman.qth.net]On Behalf Of 
> tlogan7 at cox.net
> Sent: Wednesday, January 15, 2003 3:14 PM
> To: hallicrafters at mailman.qth.net
> Cc: n7rk at cox.net
> Subject: [Hallicrafters] tools for the newbie
> 
> Hi folks -
> If I decide to "tweak" my new S-53A myself, rather than have a more
> knowledgable person do it, I will need some pointers:
> 1) - Where do you suggest I buy a "varacter" and about how much 
> should they
> cost? Any special characteristics I should look for?
> Thanks for any tips folks!
> 73/Tim NZ7C
> 
> 
> 
> 
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